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Here are some of the things we’ve been reading about this week:
Subsidized meals in child care led to healthier outcomes in kids.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture is expanding its school meals program and feeding more students.
The Los Angeles Unified School District has initiated a Universal Transitional Kindergarten program for 4-year-olds.
To read more, click on the following links.
Research & Practice
Subsidized meals in child care tied to healthier kids and families
The Washington Post: A study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has found that children who receive subsidized meals through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) in child-care settings are less likely to experience household food insecurity, have better health, and have fewer hospital admissions than those who eat meals provided by their parents while in care. The analysis interviewed primary caregivers of 3,084 young children living in low-income households who received subsidized care outside the home for at least 20 hours per week. The study suggests that programs like CACFP benefit not only children but also their families and society as a whole. Researchers recommend policies that strengthen and expand access to such programs.
Restrictions on Suspending Students From School Show Evidence of Being Effective
EdWeek: New research suggests that keeping misbehaving students in the classroom can lead to better academic and social outcomes for them, without disrupting the learning of their peers. This evidence supports the idea that district and state restrictions on exclusionary discipline, such as suspensions, can be beneficial. Studies have shown that suspensions can have long-term negative effects on students, including academic setbacks and increased risk of involvement in crime or unemployment as adults. Moreover, certain groups, like boys, students of color, low-income students, and those with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by exclusionary discipline.
Recent efforts have focused on reducing suspensions in schools, with some states implementing bans on nonviolent infractions. Research in Maryland showed that suspensions of K-2 students decreased after such a ban, without negatively impacting test scores or widening discipline gaps between low-income and wealthier students. The key to success appears to be implementing alternative discipline approaches such as restorative justice, and providing teachers with the necessary support and training to make these methods effective. These approaches focus on repairing relationships and helping students understand the consequences of their actions, offering a more constructive way to address misbehavior.
Policy
Uncertain Future for Providers as Child Care Crisis Looms
The 74: The expiration of federal grant funding for child care is posing a significant threat to childcare providers, and will potentially impact 3.2 million children across the United States. And a stalemate in Congress over spending may result in many providers closing their doors. A progressive think tank estimates that one-third of the country’s childcare providers, or 70,000 programs, would be affected. In Indiana, over 1,000 programs may close, causing a $132 million loss in worker productivity and $120 million in lost wages for parents. The pandemic exacerbated existing issues in the child care system, with many parents struggling to find reliable and affordable child care. While some pandemic-related funding efforts helped programs remain open, the expiration of this funding is causing further strain on child care centers. Advocates are calling for an overhaul of the child care system that would increase public investments in programs and expand access for families. See Also: “Opinion: Our economy is about to meet the childcare cliff — and it will be devastating”
More Students Gain Eligibility for Free School Meals Under Expanded U.S. Program
EdWeek: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a rule change that will make millions of additional students in schools that serve low-income communities eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch. Under the new rule, schools where 25 percent of families participate in income-based public benefits, such as the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), will be eligible for the federal government to cover the cost of free meals for all enrolled students. This threshold was previously set at 40 percent. Approximately 3,000 additional school districts serving over 5 million students will now be eligible for the program. The change expands access to universal meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), reducing administrative burdens for families and ensuring children have access to healthy meals. Some critics have raised concerns about the costs of the program, but advocates argue it will alleviate burdens on many families and help address childhood hunger and improve student health.
Around the Nation
As The New School Year Begins, Hopes are High for LAUSD Pre-K for Four-Year-Olds
The 74: Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has initiated a Universal Transitional Kindergarten (UTK) program for 4-year-olds. Two goals are to improve literacy rates and boost enrollment. After a successful introduction of pre-K dual language and special education classes for 14,000 students, the district expanded the free UTK program to all 4-year-olds, enrolling an additional 5,000 students this academic year in over 480 schools. The program focuses on early investment in children’s education, offering hands-on learning of fundamental concepts like letters, numbers, and social skills at a slower pace. Though there are challenges like potty training and attachment issues, the benefits of early education are evident, as it increases future earning potential, test scores, and high school graduation rates. See Also: “Parents: Colorado’s universal preschool program now allows walk-in enrollment”
Maui Prep prioritizes student mental health
Lahaina News: Maui Preparatory Academy in Napili, Hawaii, which serves preschool through high school students, is adapting to the state’s post-wildfire reality with increased enrollment and a focus on student well-being. In just one week, the school’s student population grew from 275 to 390, with over 1,000 applicants seeking admission. Tuition payment was not a factor in acceptance, because donations from around the world are supporting students. Faculty and staff welcomed the new students and offered emotional support, including licensed social workers and comfort dogs. Maui Prep also secured funding for a long-term Licensed Clinical Social Worker to provide counseling services. The school’s commitment to student well-being is central to its recovery efforts and community support.
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